September 2020

The Woodlands Art League may not be able to meet or function in our “normal” way right now, but we still have business and planning to do for when we can.  The board is working to ensure that WAL is still an important part of the arts community of The Woodlands.  Your support and membership are of the greatest importance to our future success.

The state of the Art League is this, our current active membership is approximately 120.  This is down some, due to some not renewing yet.  If you are interested in supporting our future and have not become an active member, please do so.  You can join via our website, by mail, or contact a board member to get started.  

Our financial situation is okay, given the restrictions on our activities.  We have $16,000 in our active account, $21,500 in our Reserve Fund, and a small CD worth $5500.  Currently, we have no major source of income beyond membership dues.  Other sources of income have included workshops, classes, and a portion of sales of artwork at WAL events.  Our expenses are relatively small, but we do have a few regular items to budget for (equipment storage, insurance, etc.)  With all this figured in, WAL is currently running a small year-to-date deficit of around -$577.

We are not part of the Woodlands Arts Council and receive no funding from them.  We have members who have volunteered to work the WAC Waterway Arts Festival, for which we do receive some donations from the WAC.  Recently, and especially now, this has not been a significant source of income.

Some have asked about seeking grants and donations.  While this is a goal of the board, we are only beginning to gather the information and records needed to satisfy the grant writing process.  When we can adequately present a solid proposal, we will do so.  But note that it is not a guarantee that a grant will be awarded.

Donations from corporations or individuals are always welcome.  We are trying to find people we talk with about donations and making connections within The Woodlands and surrounding area.  Connections are important, and the benefits may be long-lasting and not always financial.

The Woodlands Art League is at a bit of a crossroad, however.  We have been an organization for over 40 years.  As with any group of people, the organization must continually evaluate itself that it is meeting the needs and aspirations of its membership. 

Our basic goals have not changed.  We want to be a community of artists and supporters, based in The Woodlands area. We want to be a place where artists can meet to exchange ideas, socialize, and display their art.  We want to be an organization where artists can learn and that furthers education for the community.  We are part of The Woodlands, Oak Ridge, Shenandoah, Magnolia, and all the surrounding area.  Our members have come to expect that participation in WAL has benefits.

But what do we need to accomplish this mission?  You have an opportunity to let us know what you want WAL to be and to do for you.  All you need to do is voice your ideas to the board.  We have to have some sense of the direction we need to strive toward.  The board wants to hear from you, put together some ideas, and get everyone on board to take the Woodlands Art League into the future.

Contact any board member with your concerns, ideas, or offers to help WAL be your art league.

Thank you!

Dave Malin, President, for the Woodlands Art League Board.

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